Buffs in the NFL: Eric Bieniemy fired by Washington Commanders

CU Buffs great spent one season with the Commanders after a successful run in Kansas City

Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

The Washington Commanders fired offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, per an announcement by newly-hired coach Dan Quinn at his introductory press conference on Monday. It was a one-and-done season for the Colorado Buffaloes alumni in DC, who left Kansas City after winning two Super Bowls with the Chiefs.

Bieniemy was at-risk of being left out when Washington hired Kliff Kingsbury as offensive coordinator last week. He was added as associate head coach with coordinator duties under Ron Rivera who was fired prior to the conclusion of the 2023 season. The Commanders try to rebuild after a 4-13 record last year and need better personnel on both sides of the ball.

"I think he's (Bieniemy) an excellent coach," Quinn said Monday. "We're not gonna work together here. I wish EB nothing but the best. I have a lot of respect for him."

Bieniemy had a rough year after starting quarterback Sam Howell, who was relativity inexperienced. Washington's 2022 fifth-round pick came into the season with one start under his belt. There were also numerous errors with the offensive line as well. But, in reality, Bieniemy was a scapegoat for larger issues that preceded him in Washington. The offense ranked 20th or worse in both yards and points for six consecutive seasons. It's was not all part of the problem either, with a defense that was the NFL's worst, allowing 30.5 points per game.

It was nothing like Bieniemy had to work with in Kansas City. His Chiefs offenses ranked in the top six in each of his five seasons with Patrick Mahomes under center. As of now, Bieniemy is searching for his next job in the league, which he might land in the coming days.